A Real World Education

Are traditional schools preparing children for the real world? Most would not know how to anwer that question. Many would hope that was the case, but how can you be sure. Parents want to know that they are affording their children the best opportunity to have a great education. Some are not sure that the public school is providing it and have decided to home school their children themselves. Hoping to teach the children lessons the parents deem necessary for the real world. Others choose the homeschooling route so that their children are not exposed to ills of the world.

There is a point when children must enter their "real world" society and interact with their counterparts, and as Home Educators, we must prepare our children for that. Teaching children to face various situations is only accomplished through incorporating life skills into the studies. Educators must see the world with a different perspective. Parents must ask themselves, "will they prepared for college life?" not just the education, "will they be prepared for the work place"?

There is much to prepare for, but time is limited. First, parents must set attainable and definable goals for their children. Make a list and be willing to adapt and change it as the need arises. Next, integrate their teaching with real world situations. If students are assigned projects give them directions and parameters, but it is not necessary to hold their hand each step of the way. This will teach them skills for project and time management, accountability. Encourage them when they are working through problems, but don't be too ready to give them the answer so that their problem solving skills are exercised. Accomplishment on their own gives them a sense of pride and elevates their confidence.

One method you can incorporate into your children's studies is Syllabus Learning, as they do in colleges. Courses and expectations are outlined at the beginning of the semester. Assignments are established and target dates are set. This type of learning will prepare them for what is expected at the collegiate level and prepare them to be self-motivated.

There are a variety of avenues to educate, finding what works best is a matter of trying new things and being open to new ideas. If parents remember that all children, whether gifted, average or in need of assistance, all will rise to whatever level of expectation their teachers expect of them.